the very best among us
(dedicated to those 36 lamed vovniks who anonymously dwell among us)
36 untainted souls
the very best among us
oblivious of their generational stature,
luminescent
indistinguishable
transcendent among us,
sentinels fortifying our world-
solid and stalwart diamonds anchoring God’s garden
36 untainted souls
the very best among us
who inspire us with their benevolence and humility,
who comfort us from pain and loss,
receptacles enduring our grief
servants who insulate and shelter
teachers who instill and inspire…
36 untainted souls
the very best among us
who manifest the heartbeat of the world
many times over,
with each generation,
and so into 36
are beckoned once again
2/1/18